LGBT activists are campaigning to prevent the Australian Government from introducing a law on religious liberty.
First proposed in 2018 following a review into religious freedom, the Government hopes to introduce the Bill into Parliament before the end of the year.
The proposals are intended to protect the expression of religious belief, allow medical professionals to conscientiously object to certain procedures and allow religious organisations to recruit staff in line with their basis of faith.
‘Indefensible’
Attorney-General Michaelia Cash met with LGBT activists and faith groups in a forum to discuss the issue.
It’s indefensible that there is not protection for religious freedom.
A spokesperson for the Attorney-General said she is ensuring that “all input can be considered” and that the “government has conducted two rounds of public consultation on draft legislation, and met face to face with over 90 stakeholders in a series of roundtables”.
Michael Stead, Anglican Bishop of South Sydney, called the Bill “well and truly overdue”, saying: “It’s indefensible that there is not protection for religious freedom”.
Cornerstone
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison planned to introduce new laws on religious liberty in 2019.
He said: “Religious freedom is one of the cornerstones of what we are as a country, and it’s important our laws reflect that”.
Religious freedom is one of the cornerstones of what we are as a country, and it’s important our laws reflect that.
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